The Itron ChoiceConnect Fixed Network 100 automates meter data collection using wireless communications to collect granular meter data and can leverage existing utility and public communications infrastructure for backhaul communications. Two-way communications to the meter and time synchronized interval data collection provide advanced data collection capabilities for increases in operational efficiencies, enhanced levels of customer service and improvements in system integrity.

Itron electricity, water and gas radio-based endpoints transmit consumption, interval usage and meter tamper data at regular intervals to a network of collectors, which backhaul the meter data to the Fixed Network collection engine. Repeaters can be used to extend the range of collectors or fill holes in endpoint to collector coverage, further enabling the cost effectiveness of the network. The collection engine processes, manages and distributes the meter data to billing systems, direct customer access programs and advanced analysis applications.

The Itron Fixed Network allows utilities to choose from a number of existing public communications platforms such as GPRS (general packet radio service) networks, Ethernet, and PSTN (public switched telephone networks) to gather energy meter data. Fixed Network is very scalable to grow with a utility’s needs. With its reliance on existing infrastructure for backhaul communications and low-cost neighborhood repeaters to limit the number of required concentrators, Fixed Network is one of the lowest cost networks available.

When you deploy Fixed Network for advanced data collection, you can:

Reconcile bill inquiries in real time with customer usage profiles and on-demand reads